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[Terca]

Chasing Spectres

 

 

The first sightings of Commander Shepard have hardly reached the upper echelons of the Alliance and the Citadel but there is already action on the horizon.

Collector interest in human colonies has not gone unnoticed by the council races, they too have fears about what it might mean for their own people, their own worlds. Event the long-established empires of the Turians, Asari and Salarians are not without fringes, dark corners and unease. With the knowledge that a group never quite thought to be real is truly after innocent civilians the Council has been forced to act. And act it should.

At the suggestion of the Turian chancellor a Spectre from among the ranks of the Hierarchy has been chosen to lead a group of forces in an attempt to root out the truth in the actions of the Collectors, and to sooner than later put an end to the threat to their people.

Join a conflict without information, and fumble about blindly searching for the next rung as we scramble towards that truth.

 

 

Proposed by: FlareDiamandis

 

Setting: ME2, During time Shepard is with Cerberus

 

Character Restrictions: No Collector Characters, no Canon Characters.

 

Shepard Decisions: Udina is Chancellor, Wrex Survived, Original Council survived.

 

The Turian Spectre, Deidrus Androkan, is mine, iiZephyr's.

[Terca]

Deidrus Andronkan sat within the confines of the Commander's cabin on the Turian frigate Audron as it lazily orbited one of the arms of the Citadel. He had been summoned briefed by comms and then summarily dismissed within the span of fifteen minutes. He had not been surprised when the Turian representative to the Council had called upon him after his time away from Galactic issues, he had been surprised by the nature of the issue that was calling him back.

 

He'd been requested to come to the Citadel post-haste but had been told to wait off-station when he'd actually arrived, and then was sent an assortment of dossiers with simple instructions;

 

Firstly, find the individuals outlined, Secondly, gain an understanding of what they know of colonies near the Terminus and near the Traverse, Thirdly, return for a full briefing, in private, with those selected.

 

The speed with which they had asked him to arrive told him the matter at hand was urgent, the fact he was then turned away to find allies told him that they were both concerned about a certain subject but were wary of the consequences of action without preparation. It was hardly his concern either way, he had an objective to follow through. Whether or not the Councilors would act hastily or not was his concern, not the detours that were taking him and his team away from that possibilities.

 

He had an assortment of people to pick up which ranged in species and profession to his interest. Combat specialists and scientists rubbed elbows at times when a fight was on uncertain terms with uncertain bounds. He stood from his desk and took his tea, or more accurately flash-frozen herbs reheated in lukewarm water, and walked towards the lift that would take him to the CIC. Time wasted pondering politics is of no use to me.

 

***

Approaching the comms station Deidrus glanced over the dossier he held in his hand for one Kanae "Drop" Addle, an N-Class member of the Alliance. His current position and location was unmarked on the list which made sense for the short service record he was privy to. Those of the N7 program tended to be the more difficult to trace, understandably so. That said there was always a way to get in contact from the top of a chain and see how the message traveled down.

 

To Alliance Command:

 

Officers,

 

At the request of the Council I have been informed of the abilities demonstrable by one 'Kanae Addle'. As part of a mission proposed by the same organization I require a method of communication with Addle. According to the dossier provided he fits the necessary requirements for this mission however it states no current whereabouts or under who's command he is currently operating. It would be greatly appreciated if it would be possible to enter dialogue with Lt. Addle. My request should be seen as an extension of the council, any necessary particulars surrounding the mission are thus sensitive however Councilor Udina will be able to inform.

 

Regards,

 

Spectre Deidrus Androkan

 

Deidrus sent the message and stepped back from the console as he set the dossier aside. He pondered whether he was being too forceful with the humans' galactic representation however he presumed time made force of words somewhat necessary.

[siphernin]

[Message sent to Spectre over secured transmission]

 

Reply to Spectre Deidrus Androkan:

 

As your Spectre status has been cleared through, the Alliance is in reluctance to speak on the present location of one Lt. Addle as he is in the midst of performing active duty and has gone radio silent.  No disregard or disrespect to your Council given status, but this mission is ranking in priority status for the lieutenant.  However, as a show of good faith on the Alliance’s side towards a Council representative, it has been permitted that the parameters of the mission be allowed to be shared.  Given the blackout period of 48 hours since Lt. Addle’s mission undertaking, best possible location to find him is in the outskirts of Nos Astros, Illium.  The Batarian, Acorus Baladrum is the intended mark.  At standing, target is aware of Lt. Addle via codename, “Drop”.  Baladrum has put forth a large credit bounty on Lt. Addle’s person if he is correctly identified.  As it is not known if agent “Drop’s” profile is known to the target, we would request that his identity not be revealed.  That stated, your best chance to catch up with Lt. Addle is as he works through this assignment.  Beyond that, you would have to wait.  However, given the urgency your message seems to entail, the best option has been provided. 

 

As all channels have been cleared beyond this, your acquisition of Lt. Addle has been approved at such the time you are able to meet up with him.  The orders have been passed down to him and should be received once radio silence is canceled.

 

We of the Alliance wish you the best of luck in your endeavor Spectre Androkan.

 

[End Transmission]

[Terca]

Androkan glanced over the message and forwarded the command to the pilot for movement towards the Citadel's relay and into Illum's space. An inside job it seems. Potentially more useful to simply get inside and kill the man ourselves than wait for Addle to appear. Unfortunately, bringing enough men with me without rousing suspicion will be enough of a task. He decided it would be ideal to bring in a couple of his own men passing them off as mercenary acquaintances that he would be willing to bring into the deal.

 

He decided on the simple course of action proposed by the Alliance, taking the job defending Baladrum and then waiting for Kanae to appear before cutting their way back out. The ship would be useful for this if the base was above ground however Illium's airspace would be nothing short of impregnable with the private defenses on the Asari colony. No, it would be an more precarious job. A necessary difficulty.

 

He reached the helm as the ship entered range of the relay and was shot off to continue on a set of jumps that would take them into the Tasale system.

[ParkBom]

Spectre Androkan, 

 

I'll be brief, just how I know you like it. Per your request, the location of two more specialists have been found and at the Council's behest, they've been sent to you. One such dossier belongs to Elara T'Sophi, an Asari biologist who's currently awaiting you at the Illium spaceport. Word is that she's a bit of a nut so watch out. She's a biotic and former Commando, though, so feel free to take her into combat. You'll have to clear Elara's release with an security officer there, most likely an Asari. If you're lucky, it'll be a Justicar. I've never been fortunate enough to see them. Lovely women, you know, so graceful and er... Anyway, just bring your Spectre creds and you'll be free to go with a new scientist along for the ride.

 

The other specialist is in a bit more complicated situation. The Alliance said they just sent her off on a mission on Nevos, to secure a compound captured by Eclipse, the gang. However, once their ship entered the atmosphere, communication was lost. It's probably just a jamming device, as the Eclipse are smart, but they still want you to recruit her in person. The specialist is Adelaide Yun-Ju Song. Other than having a wonderfully overdone-up name, she's a talented young engineer and mercenary, the former being something your ship seems to need. You're almost guaranteed to have to fight Eclipse there so bring a biotic or techie, just to combat their's. The base is on a beach, though, so you'll get a nice view while bashing in some heads.

That's all I've got for you now. Stay safe.

 

Secretary Rasea T'Waeri

~

On Illium, the ships zoomed, providing an ever-present noise in the background of the city. While she had somewhat missed this place, being that she hadn't returned home in years, it wasn't under these kinds of circumstances that she would want to return. Glancing to the right where the Huntress stood watch, Elara shot her a cheeky grin, only drawing out a roll of the eyes from her serious guard. With a sigh, the scientist slumped in her chair, her chin held up by her left hand and her elbow propped up on her knee. It was boring, to say the least, to wait for this Spectre or whoever she was to join up with.

The prospect of going on a mission was exciting, though, the Asari couldn't play enthusiastic without the ability to access her omni-tool. In order to pass through security measures, her guard had forced her to shut off her omni-tool. While it was understandable, given that she could use it to escape, it still made waiting in the docking terminal quite boring. Without video games to play, data to analyze, or even tech to mess around with, all she could do was watch the skies and the transports dashing through them.

So that's what she did, while waiting for this Spectre. 

[Terca]

Turian Ship the Audron

(Ignore the NASA Logos, dimernsions changed to length of 170m and width of 130m)

 

 

As the Audron entered the Tasale system the comm buoys relayed the sent dossiers to Deidrus' omni-tool, the high tone notifying him of the information. He glanced over it and let out a short 'hmm' as he pondered the convenience of it. The Asari would be useful and her being in the path already is fortunate. He ordered the pilot to take them into approach at Illium trans-Galactic spaceport while he walked to the back of the ship to get into his armor. By the time the ship had docked he was armed and ready.

 

He addressed the crew shortly through the comms; "This is not a shore leave, this is for requisition of goods and picking up new personnel. Quartermaster, we will require Levo rations and food for these new crewmates. All others, be ready for a rapid sortie. Squad L be ready for action, there is a possibility of necessary conflict in the near future. Androkan out." With that he stepped out of the ship and into the spaceport and began walking down the steps, waving away customs with his Spectre Status and a harsh glance from behind his visor.

[ParkBom]

'Is that the Spectre? He certainly looks like a Spectre, from the way he's shoving off customs.'

 

Standing up as if to go greet the Turian, Elara's Huntress bodyguard extended her arm, a deep frown on her face as she shook her head. Sighing again, this time much louder, the scientist allowed the other Asari to take the lead. Dressed in her science outfit, it was clear who was more equipped to speak to this Spectre, given that the Huntress had a sniper rifle on her back and was dressed in commando leathers. Walking in quick, wide strides, the pair of Asari made it to the Turian with minor hassle, aside from the Huntress being rather rough when shoving passed bystanders in her way.

"Are you Spectre Androkan, the one to pick up Elara T'Sophi?" the Huntress questioned crisply, voice lacking any sense of welcoming or warmth. Rather, it was all business with her. In response to the other's cold attitude, Elara shot out her hand for a handshake. "Greetings, Spectre! I've been waiting anxiously for your arrival! Oooh, I cannot wait to finally be free of Sazia's watchful gaze." The Huntress, apparently this Sazia whom the scientist spoke of, only snorted in response.

[Terca]

"Deidrus Androkan, Spectre Status has been recognized for five years." The Turian confirmed with a nod, his eyes shifting from the Huntress to the scientist and back again. The woman, possibly a Justicar, possibly a commando (the latter supported by the armor, or lack thereof) looked to be a keeper more than anything with the action however he kept that to himself. She was armed and between himself and necessary crewmembers, there were traditions to be upheld. He did not touch Elara's hand, more for it being out of turn for him as she had not been released yet rather than being cold. He brought up his omni-tool and with the crooking of his fingers his Spectre ID was shown. "I've been informed that this T'Sophi is an asset to my ship."

 

He pondered in the back of his mind why a scientist was under the guard of a huntress however swept that aside for later.

[ParkBom]

Elara frowned slightly in response, though, said nothing other than huffing. "Bah, you military types are no fun." It didn't occur until after that statement that she was also could be considered a military type, considering her past service and the missions she was about to go out on. Though, she still saw herself as a scientist first, commando second. That's how it would be, for now and even on the ship.

Once the Spectre brought up his identification, the Huntress activated her own omni-tool, verifying his claim to be true within seconds. Then, with a few more deft movements, the scientist's omni-tool awakened as well, lighting up in a holographic blue hue. "It seems that you're clear to have her under your wing, Spectre. Keep her safe. She's a valuable asset to the Asari and should be treated as such, no matter how important your mission is." The other Asari smirked, raising an eyebrow-like marking. "Sazia, don't lie. You know you're just saying that because you'll miss me."

The Huntress said nothing, cracking a slight smile before nodding, handing Elara a SMG in the meantime. "Maybe. Either way, I've got another assignment to get started on. May the Goddess be with you both." With a brief bow, the Asari gracefully took her exit, stepping into a blue taxi which whisked her off to the south. 

"Finally! My omni-tool is alive once more!" Fiddling around with the settings of her device, the omni-tool flashed multiple colors as she changed them, going through a rainbow of hues before the Asari decided on a blue color, somewhat brighter than the shade of blue she had started with. "Are we to go back on your ship, Spectre? I would like to see the lab in which I will be working in. Or do we have a mission? If so, it's a good thing I was given a weapon." she asked, taking out the sub-machine gun before analyzing it, blue eyes scanning for any deficiencies in the weapon.

[Terca]

The Turian's eyes followed the Huntress as she entered the car and continued to follow until the skycar was out of site before returning his attention to the Scientist. He offered his hand now, somewhat as an apology for not accepting hers just before then. "Your being armed is of use either way, conflict with find us or we will find conflict soon enough on this planet. That being said the Quartermaster and Requisitions officer would like to receive some information from you on what you will need for your protracted stay aboard the ship. Message me when you are finished." He waved the Asari off and listened to the footsteps fading off into the distance and some muttering under the young woman's breath. He turned his attention over the railing that looked down the trademarked tiered extremeties of the Asari city.

 

Many considered Illium the bridge to the 'wild west' as humans called it, the last vestige of civilization before entering the blood of the Terminus. Deidrus was of another mindset as someone who had spent years within the Terminus. It was simply an area where peopled lived as they dared to the consequence of death or worse should the tides of luck push against them. It was a fine balance which tipped often in the favor of the Spirits, but that was part of what made the Terminus a considerably ally in conflict. Nobody knew those systems, one could hide from the combined armies of the 'big three' Aria, and the rest of the Galaxy there. Secrets were better kept, alliances more shadily forged. It was part of the air there.

 

His musings were cut short by necessity though. He reached to his side subtly to check his Paladin. Reassured at its presence he took off from the spaceport and into the traffic of Nos Astra, the rogue star in the crown of the Asari republics.

[sH0tgUn jUliA]

Shiara was in her dressing room at Azesia. The beat and bass pounded through the walls, and penetrated her soul. She looked forward to these breaks. She carefully set down her gear in the pink duffle bag. It made a clink, and she winced. She quietly unzipped the bag and removed two throwing knives and quickly inserted them into the sheathes in the rear neck of her catsuit, and made sure her two Carnifexes were on top, then zipped it closed. 

 

Shiara wore an irridescent purple catsuit and heels. Her catsuit had a collar that looked like throwing knives all the way around. It was a perfect disguise for the real things. She sat down at her dresser to apply her makeup. She liked to apply it particularly dramatic around her deepset purple eyes, and she used a temporary purple bar on the center of her lower lip that went down to her chin. She was envious of Asari who had natural facial markings and would sometimes apply a dye to simulate them. At this time, however, she didn't have anything applied. 

 

Dahlia, her supervisor at the club, poked her head in the room. "Shiara, hurry up. You're on in five."

 

"I'll be right there," Shiara said. 'Good thing I stretched back at the hotel,' she thought and dusted her cheeks, 'That's good enough on the makeup. Smile for the public.'

 

She walked out of the room, and strutted down the hall into the backstage area and put her leg on the bar, and really started getting into the music. The Krogan bouncer glanced her way and smiled. She smiled and winked. Grawl wasn't the sharpest knife in the drawer, but he was a sweetheart to the dancers and made sure the customers didn't cause them any trouble.

 

Liselle entered the room from the stairs leading to the stage. "Hey, Shiara."

 

"Hey, yourself. How's the crowd?" Shiara asked while she changed legs.

 

"It's a good crowd tonight. Generous, too," Liselle replied, and showed her take.

 

"Nice. Anyone acting strange?"

 

"Not that I noticed, why?"

 

"Oh, just wondering. You can never be too careful these days."

 

"I hear that. Take care, Shiara."

 

Shiara did some flips, backflips, trotted up onto the stage, and took her position at the pole front and center.

[Terca]

Deidrus was walking along the strip that was parallel to the Spaceport when a message came through on his omni-tool listed as priority. The symbol of the STG greeted him as he crooked a finger and opened the display. He glanced over the contents and got a general idea of the message before turning and walking up the block and turning into a store. He browsed along the food for a moment before brushing against the shoulder of a Salarian who was humming a light tune to himself as he shopped. The shorter man didn't give any indication of knowing who Deidrus was and the Turian kept on his way, not lingering too long.

 

After making a couple of meaningless purchases he left the shop again before sliding into a red skycar with blacked-out windows that was waiting in front of the store. He set his bag down at his feet and flexes his hand, the Spectre symbol flashing in the darkness.

 

"Unnecessary, status was confirmed before you arrived at the port. Sergeant Salid at your service." The Salarian who had been shopping was sitting across from Deidrus and was inspecting the food he had purchased. "One of our 'information' bureaus has come across a woman that was recommended for the cause, one Naleena T'Sarius. She is on-planet, occupied."

 

The Turian raised a brow plate to the Salarian as the car took off along a side path, not following traditional skycar paths. "Occupied?"

 

"From the report, which was updated within the quarter-hour, she is working at a club of some sort. Bar maybe. The group which has been following her has been understandably quiet. She is notoriously hard to maintain contact on, a shadow. I am not privy to all information, what I am allowed to see makes it clear there is potential for conflict."

[ParkBom]

"C'mon, Ad, you have to hurry. Eclipse is sure to have sent some kind of scouting squad to make sure we were taken out."

"Patience, Grant. Can't rush perfection, especially when she's being rushed by a soldier with no idea how our stealth systems work."

"Hey, I-! Never mind that, just can you get this crate up and running or not?"

"Don't think so. They did a number on the ol' girl. It's too bad. She was cutie, too."

Standing up from her crouched position, the engineer brushed a few loose black strands of hair out of her visor-covered eyes, hand finding its place on her hip. The orange glow from her omni-tool died down as Adelaide took a few brief glances around their crash site, visor aiding how far she could see. It was on a beach, next to the jungle, so it was a wonder that they only crashed on the sand and not into a tree or the water. Though, that didn't help when the initial missile that had shot them down roasted three out of the five-man squad. Now, it was just her and another human, Grant. He was a rookie and a few years younger than herself, by the looks of him. A mean smirk appeared on the merc's face as she imagined the younger soldier pissing his pants out of fear. 

"What do we do now? We have no way to make it to their base!" he questioned, clear fear lacing his words.

"We're taking a bit of a detour. Ever trekked through a jungle? It's truly a wonderful experience, though, not good for your clothes. Thank God this is just my armor and not my furs, which I actually care about." Without another word, the slyly confident mercenary started towards the jungle, taking her M-4 Shuriken into her right hand. Stealing a few glances of the smoking ruin that was their shuttle, the other human waited a few more seconds before running down the path Adelaide had walked down, catching up with the woman as she strutted down the jungle as if it was a catwalk, her visor giving her a sense of confidence.

[Terca]

"Clarify, if you would." The Turian asked as he glanced out the window at the odd shapes the urban sprawl of Nos Astra made below them bysection and cutting over the delta it was build upon. He would prefer it if there was minimal conflict along the way, being warned of it immediately was not a very nice indicator.

 

The Salarian blinked a couple of times before making a slightly nasal noise like a growling hum, more pensive than irritated. "Again, knowledge is not readily available however there is a chance that she may be rather... Delicate... Yes, in a delicate position for the STG. I believe that the group assigned to her may be..." He shook his head. "I would be speaking out of turn." He seemed set on that idea and the Turian didn't feel a need to try and pump more information from him. He'd wait to see for himself, that's why he was armed.

 

"Noted. What's our destination?"

 

"Azesia, a club known as also being somewhat of a lounge. Popular, but somewhat exclusive. Out of the way, a perfect place to hide if you're an Asari." The Salarian explained as they left the more pedestrian region around the spaceport and began to skirt the corporate region. The Turian noted the transition and made a clicking noise with his mandibles that was impossible to hear outside of his helmet. Keeping the exotic dancers closer to corporate doors seems one way of establishing a unique clientele.

[sH0tgUn jUliA]

The inside of the club was lit in a dark blue except over the bar which was pure white. The floor had orange LEDs embedded in the traffic areas so one could find their way around. Tables had candles for intimate lighting. The stage lighting, of course changed with the music throughout the night, with each star dancer getting their turn in the spotlight.

 

An attractive and well-dressed human couple entered the club, and paid their cover charge at the door. They looked like they had money. The man was wearing a gray suit and dark glasses. The woman had short slicked black hair and wore a black cat suit. He tipped the hostess and the couple was led to a table directly in front of Shiara. Shortly, a human female server wearing a black leather corset, black thigh high leather boots, and a bright red wig in a bob took their drink order. 

 

Shiara had put on her usual show for them when four Salarians entered.

 

"Is it her?" one of the Salarians asked.

 

"It could be," the human male said while leaning over to his partner, "I'll signal for a more intimate dance. Eva will use her ring camera for a close up."

 

The server returned with the couple's drinks. Eva nodded, picked up her drink and toasted Shiara. 250 CR were deposited into Shiara's account for the night.

 

Shiara dropped off her pole and down to her knees and began a very intimate dance for the couple. Shiara's movements were fluid and hypnotic. Once she made eye contact with you, you were drawn in and felt almost out of control like she was taking over. Her movements were athletic and controlled like a gymnast. She took over the stage with her presence, and she finished by balancing on one hand and arching her back over onto her feet in a single slow controlled movement, then grabbed her pole and went back into the beat without a break.

 

"That's Naleena," the Salarian said.

 

"Should we take her?"

 

"We're moving into position," the Salarian said as his team spread out. "Take her on my mark. Three.... two.... one...."

 

The human male drew a gun. Naleena saw it and grabbed a throwing knife from her collar and threw it at him and hit him in the right eye. She saw three laser beams in her area, and back flipped toward the rear of the stage. One of the Salarians took a shot, and missed, hitting one of the other dancers. Naleena saw it, and saw the Salarians. Jenira was dead.

 

"No! ****ing toads!" She screamed.

 

Grawl grabbed the shotgun he had stowed in the corner in the doorway to the warmup area, and fired a warning shot in the air. The bartender called the local police. Naleena ran to her dressing room, grabbed her duffle bag, pulled out her Carnifex, slung the bag over her shoulder, and ran for the exit. Grawl kept the Salarians at bay for a couple of minutes, but it was too wide an area to cover, and the human female, and the four Salarians got past him. Naleena ran out into the parking lot. 'I've got to find a way out of here.'

[Terca]

As the Skycar began to pull up beside the ledge for skycars a notification popped up on his omni-tool. He grumbled, brow creasing somewhat. "Odd." He flicked the message and scanned over the contents. "The group sent ahead has set their status to 'active'. Why would they be-"

 

The sound of the shotgun blast inside the club was still audible even outside the soundproofed walls and the scattering of individuals made it clear something had gone wrong inside. Deidrus reached to his side and pulled at the Paladin as the skycar's top came up and tilted to the side to allow him to stand at his full height. He looked out over the front area of the club and off to the side at the lot where some skycars had been parked. His eyes narrowed at the woman making her way through the lot not too far from him.

 

"Armed woman at 20 degrees mid, armed with a Carnifex and carrying a duffel bag. Red markings visible. Does it match the description?" He asked briskly as he moved his eyes from the Asari to the club and back again. "She has made an exit and his heading to the parking lot, bring us low over the walkway towards her, keep the canopy up just in case I need to suppress."

 

"Sir, it could be STG me-" The Salarian tried to interrupt.

 

"If they are willing to kill a needed individual they are rogue. If it is another group we need to get her out now." The Turian replied, cutting off the Sergeant. The Skycar pulled off and traveled just over the heads of some of the fleeing people towards Naleena.

[sH0tgUn jUliA]

After she left the club, which was on the 10th floor of the building, and level with the top floor of the parking structure, Naleena ran toward a row of parked cars and began testing doors. She gave up, slammed her omni-tool against the door of an orange sports vehicle, and began hacking the door. About half-way through the hack, the exit to the club burst open and three armed men ran out. They took cover immediately behind concrete planters, and began firing at her.

 

"****! I almost had it!" She said as she prepared a flare for the STG agents and their contractor. She let it fly and it detonated knocking three of them down and injuring them. "That will give them pause." 'And buy me a few seconds. Anyone, just anyone getting into a car right now would be welcome.'

 

She grabbed her duffle bag and ran away from her attackers around the front of the building, ran back inside, and took the stairs up to the second floor. There was a set of private room on the second from where one could watch the party below in complete privacy. A screen took the place of a window. Naleena started checking doors. One was unlocked, and there was a couple hiding inside.

 

"Please, don't hurt us."

 

"Get out!" Naleena ordered.

 

The couple left and Naleena locked the door, and took out her black commando leathers, boots, and changed. She put on her black leather coat that buttoned only to her natural waist, and grabbed her two Carnifex heavy pistols, and 5 extra magazines for each. She listened at the door then opened it, and went quietly down stairs. She cloaked and slipped out the door behind someone. 

 

STG agents had fanned out in the area looking for her.

 

"We lost her," the human female said.

 

"Don't think so. Can still smell her. Her scent is strong. We continue," the STG leader said. He was not more than two meters in front of Naleena. 

 

Naleena was hiding in front of a parked skycar. She waited for the agent to pass and reached up and snapped his neck.

 

"There she is!" the human shouted and fired at her.

 

Naleena turned, pointed both pistols at her and began alternate firing them, striking the woman in the leg, shoulder, abdomen, and in the head. Then she flipped, putting herself behind a tree, cloaked again, and moved to another parked vehicle across on the other side of the lot. She stepped on a twig. It snapped.

 

The Salarians knew where she was, and they had her surrounded. One of them saw the silouette of the cloak that you could see if you knew what to look for. He fired an overload at her and it disabled the cloak. Naleena took cover.

 

"Drop your weapons and surrender, Naleena. We have you surrounded. This doesn't have to end badly." the STG agent in charge now said.

 

Naleena prepared another flare; she'd been in tighter spots than this before. The agents were closing on her, and she just waited for them to get close enough: three meters would do the trick. 

 

"Drop your weapons, and kick them out."

 

They stopped at about three meters. Naleena holstered her the pistol in her left hand. She focused the energy of her flare on the floor of the lot and struck the floor with her fist. The resulting shock wave sent the agents sprawling to the ground. She stood up and shot two of the remaining three agents. The third nervously aimed his gun at her. She shot it out of his hand, and began walking slowly toward him. The bottom of her coat trailed in the air behind her.

 

"I give up!" He shouted, "Please. I have a family."

 

"I believe that is a fabrication. Even if it is not, I believe you would say anything to elude your fate."

 

"No. Please, I'm telling the truth," the Salarian was backing up. 

 

She had him backed against the building and reached with her left hand and grabbed him by the neck of his armor, lifted him off the ground, and put the barrel of the other pistol under his chin.

 

"There was a young Asari who died because of your culpably negligent work in there. Her name was Jenira. She had a family and was my friend. And because of who you are, no action will be taken. Therefore, I would be remiss in not effectuating justice. And I have to start a new life somewhere, no thanks to you, toad." She fired the pistol, and the top of the Salarian's skull exploded against the side of the building.

[Terca]

The Turian raised a brow plate at the splatter of blood that climbed up the wall, the powerful round more than overkill on the unshielded Salarian in his mind. This will cause a diplomatic dispute. As much was obvious from the halted nattering of the Salarian that was in the skycar with him. He resisted the urge to roll his eyes and waved a hand at him to grab a bit of his attention. "Keep your eyes on the floor of the car, don't meet her eyes. I'd look as small as possible if I were you since she seems to rather dislike your cohort." The skycar changed direction and sped up in case any more members of the STG made the poor decision of approaching the Asari.

 

Stepping off the skycar and landing on the street audibly as to not sneak up on the woman Deidrus holstered his Paladin temporarily and scanned the area quickly to look for any nosy onlookers. "Naleena." He said simply, standing more relaxed than he actually felt around the woman. Being defensive would not help him here. "Spectre Deidrus Androkan, I've been told you could contribute a rather unique set of abilities to my crew, and given the recent spectacle I would say I agree."

[sH0tgUn jUliA]

Naleena holstered her weapon and sighed. "If you know who I am, I can assume that you know considerably more about me than I would prefer. However, that does not preclude us negotiating a contract. I had been hoping to enjoy some well earned vacation time. I dance, you know. It's great for conditioning. I was dancing in the club minding my own business when this started. They shot first. I was defending myself. And the last one had killed an innocent bystander who had become an acquaintance of mine: an intimate acquaintance. Her name was Jenira. I was merely administering justice."

 

Deidrus nodded. "That could cause a diplomatic dispute."

 

"Your job: are toads involved?" Naleena shot a glare. 

 

"You know how things are in the galaxy. Everyone has their fingers in everything," Deidrus replied. 'This is going to be very delicate.'

 

"In any event, diplomatic problems are not my concern," Naleena said, turned, and began walking toward the building entrance. "I have some belongings I need to collect. They're inside on the second floor. Accompany me and explain this job of yours. I'm guessing you're aware of my fees? In any event, I need to vacate this area quickly before the authorities arrive."

[Terca]

Deidrus fell into step behind the woman, on her right and two paces behind. "As far as they will be concerned you killed in self defense aside from the man who's blood is adding a new color layer to the outside of the building. Even if you were to be held accountable, from what I know of these colonies on the edge of the Terminus is that the operations of national entities outside their bounds is less than desired."

 

As they entered the building the muffled noise of music was audible as whomever was operating the music apparently decided to jump away without turning it off. It was muffled in the back-corridor they were using though, nothing too distracting. "As for Salarians I simply take information from the STG, none of them are part of my crew as of yet. There is an STG member in my skycar who seems much more afraid of you than vindictive." He idly considered whether or not the sergeant would turn and run but dismissed the thought, it was unneeded as of current. "And for pricing I'm afraid the assets are out of my hands. The council itself has requested your assistance, given your skill I imagine recompense will be substantial though I cannot speak for the STG which may have some ire against you for their losses. That is not so much my concern."

[sH0tgUn jUliA]

"I figured as much," Naleena said as they entered the room. She collected her gear, stopped and turned to face the Spectre. "Have you ever lost a loved one, or someone you cared deeply about to an act of violence? I'm speaking about someone who is totally innocent. Someone like Jenira? Or someone even closer?

 

"The reason I ask, is that people like the agent I killed moments ago get away with that, and the authorities do nothing. It is considered collateral damage on the colony worlds. There is nothing that can recompense one for such a loss. So while you may not call that self-defense, you may call it administration of justice."

 

Naleena turned and headed out the door and down the hall toward the stairs to exit the building. "If The Council has requested my services, the job must be big. My fee will be scaled accordingly upon receipt of the mission details. As far as anything involving the Salarians, if they're involved, my fee for them is full immunity and that they leave me the f*** alone."

[Terca]

It would appear we have an ideologue for justice over law. The Turian thought to himself as he tried to determine whether that would be a boon or an issue for the team. Her being hard-headed during difficult and unpopular decisions could prove an issue, something he would need to keep a few options contingent to that eventuality. She was dangerous, she was an asset. The balance between the value of the two was important.

 

"I am of a small blood-family all of whom work within the fields of conflict of war, intervening in the flashpoints of the galaxy." He began down the steps and gave her question some thought before answering a bit more bluntly. "And I do not associate with the 'innocent', as you seem to define them. I surround myself with servicemen and women that are dedicating their lives to a cause, there is no innocence in that, there is understanding. I have lost good men, and only by the grace of the spirits have my mothers evaded death or worse." When he reached the bottom of the stairwell he turned to look at the Asari. "But when they die in the line of fire it is within my understanding that their end will be by someone who feels the need of their demise. It will be the same for my own. Before blaming others for what they call collateral, what you call innocents, determine for yourself what makes men and women feel the need for such action."

 

He was acutely aware that Naleena was the much more learned in this situation however ideology was something that for him transcended age, it was an understanding anyone could come to. His 'righteous determinism in death', as some called the fatalistic outlook, was not complete. Sadists and muggers would kill you without the perceived need or even second thought. That does not stand between soldiers, not in the honor they should hold.

[sH0tgUn jUliA]

"Yet Jenira was innocent. She was a maiden: barely an adult. She was just a dancer. She took a projectile on the stage that was meant for me. It broke my heart, and that wasn't the first time, but I'd rather not discuss the others.

 

Naleena pushed open the door and walked outside into the parking lot. She pulled out a cigarette and lit it. "What the toads felt as a need for taking such an action is irrelevant. Do you know that in a court that just because I was the one who was wanted, that I would be charged for Jenira's death? Is that justice? Perhaps after your mission, IF I accept the job, after we've gotten better acquainted I will tell you how this started.

 

"Is that your skycar over there?" Naleena pointed.

 

The Turian nodded.

 

"Don't get me wrong. I'm not on a campaign for the poor and downtrodden of society. I can't right the wrongs of the galaxy, nor am I interested in doing so insofar as any wrong does not affect me or my business. They took something from me that can never be replaced. So I took something from them. Do you understand? You'll counter with 'that's how it keeps escalating.' But the body count is so high it doesn't matter anyway. Just a word of warning. You can outlive a toad, but you can't outlive their bookkeeping."

 

They arrived at Deidrus' skycar. The police had arrived and two Asari officers approached wanting to question Naleena. Deidrus flashed his SPECTRE ID. The officers shook their heads and walked off. 

 

"Wait!" Naleena shouted.

 

The officers returned. "So you're going to answer a few questions?"

 

"A few."

 

"I'm Sgt. T'goni, Nos Astra Police. May I have your name?"

 

"Shiara Danri. I am, or was a dancer at the club," Naleena said, and it was like a completely different person emerged. "I... don't think I can go back there after tonight."

 

"Uh huh, a dancer. Right. A dancer who is packing mercenary grade heat, and is dressed like that?" 

 

"I have the right to defend myself," Naleena replied, "And one of my clients likes this outfit."

 

Sgt. T'goni got the picture. "I can buy self-defense on most, but what about the blood smear on the wall? Self-defense?" 

 

"We were struggling over a gun and it went off. He'll vouch for me." Naleena pointed at Deidrus, and took out another cigarette. T'goni lit it for her.

 

"I didn't get a good look," Deidrus said. 'Don't ever do this again, Naleena.'

 

"What's in the bag, sweet cakes? Hey T'goni, get a load of this," the other officer said, "A Black Widow? What do you use this for?"

 

"I'm planning a trip to Sanves; big game hunting. I just bought it," Naleena replied.

 

"Got the receipt? That rifle costs more than I make in three years."

 

Naleena fumbled through her bag. "It was in here. Goddess! It must have fallen out when I was trying to escape. My bag wasn't zipped."

 

"A dancer? Really?"

 

"And I do a few extra favors for executive clientele, okay. It's not illegal, and I'm not cheap," Naleena said.

 

"A prostitute."

 

"Escort," Naleena corrected, "But why are you treating me like this? They attacked me in the club! And they killed my Jenira! Talk to the Krogan, Grawl. He's a sweetheart." Naleena was crying. "I'm a victim! Th... They're the criminals! They murdered Jenira!"

 

"Is there anything else, Sergeant?" Deidrus asked.

 

"No, I think that does it for now. We'll verify her story with the Krogan," T'goni said, and the officers walked off toward the club.

 

("I don't have any proof, but I'll put credits that they killed Jenira, and that ****** decided to clean house. I wouldn't want to tangle with her."

 

"Anyone who'd open up in a club like that."

 

"Yeah, I know. They get what they deserve.")

 

"Don't ever put me on the spot like that again," Deidrus said.

 

"I gave them what they wanted to see and hear. Now they can go about their business without feeling like we were hiding something," Naleena replied, "The last thing you want is for police to feel that way."

 

Naleena stood outside the car and finished her cigarette. "From a professional point of view, what happened in the club was disgusting. I never would have taken the shot. Instead I would have stalked my quarry until they were isolated and alone. There is a time when everyone is alone. Then I would carry out the terms of my contract, and only the target needs to be taken down. The party who hired me felt the need for their demise. I am the weapon."

[Terca]

A weapon... Deidrus pondered that description. "Possibly a weapon, a means I think is what someone more interested in the personal touch of an individual would use as the term. And I imagine that is what is being considered for your hiring by the council." He stepped into the skycar and beside the Salarian who was shaking like a leaf. He reclined slightly, as much as his armor would allow before pulling of his helmet and setting it in his lap. "Your compensation for your assistance can be negotiated with them, I am simply the man in charge of organizing this particular... Endeavor. I have not been fully briefed myself on the situation however from my own observation it has something to do with disappearances of colonies in the Traverse. Human colonies."

 

"Whatever the task, the variety that the Council has recommended in crew is interesting. A commando level Matron with a set of ideals and a past with the STG, a woman under guard by the Republics with tech recommendations longer than a Krogan's life is bloody, an N7 candidate... The list goes on." When the Asari had entered the canopy of the skycar dropped again and it lifted off and away. "Not to mention a ship usually reserved for hard-drops of Armiger troops with a full crew supplied by the Turian Councillor himself."

[siphernin]

The seedy club, Ber’ah due south of the best slums just outside of Nos Astros buzzed with rhythm and Baladrum found his exotic dancers to be festive.  He had no love for asari or human women, but he adored the scent they gave off.  Submissiveness as women should be, at least in batarian standards.  These dancers were beneath him and they never met his eyes.  Respect and rightfully gained.  Beyond him, his loyalist guards holding the best of his cache of the newest assault rifles, M-78 Revenants, kept the peasants at bay.

 

Baladrum watched from on high as his second perused through hitmen, mercenaries, defunct ex-officers and soldiers, and street urchins.  Baladrum was not a fool.  He expected more than half of them to probe about in the dark looking for an assassin that no one knew the face of.  He corrected his way of thinking, almost no one knew the face of.  He could only imagine that one person in the hundred knew the face of his would be assassin.  The batarian pushed the whores aside and lifted off his throne to look around those that had already been cleared.

His lower set blinked than the one just above that.  So’xako was already using his omnitool to search for inconsistencies in the profiles of those that had signed on.  Seeing he didn’t know this “Drop’s” face, the assassin could have already been amongst them.  Still, it wasn’t fear that held him, but excitement.  His hand waved down over his favored Raikou pistol.  He’d have the identity of this dead man or woman soon enough.  At least he would if that information broker came in at the set time, four minutes past.

 

The krogan bouncer backed into the door, looking up to the rafters to Baladrum.  A smile grew across his face as he caught first sign of the asari against the flashing colours.  He didn’t even mind her nervous twitch and constant looking over her shoulders.  The krogan tapped her and pointed up to Baladrum who waved her over.  A step was all she got before blue blood splatter from her head over Baladrum’s hired.

 

The krogan tried to put some distance between him and the door, but not even his kinetic barrier stopped the killshot that tore through his eye, followed by another for good measure.

 

Guns were whipped out and cocked aiming high.  People backed away from the doors and windows.  So’xako came to stand next to Baladrum, armed and ready.  “Sir, we need to go.  Now.”

Baladrum looked at him with fire in eyes, but relented.  He sucked his teeth, falling to a mild annoyance.  That woman had been a substantial investment.  He shouted for orders for someone to see if they could skirt the info of the asari’s omnitool.  As mercs moved towards her body, a hard shell bullet logged itself into the fallen asari’s side.

 

It beeped methodically.  There was barely enough time to react before its last beep and the resulting boom. 

 

 

“That a good enough start for you,” the drell sniper asked kicking out the empty thermal clip.

Kanae put the binoculars down, applauding her.  “Sis, you are damn impressive as always.”  He knelt down, putting his knife in his boot holster.  “How far do you think he’ll go?  First or second building?”

The drell slipped into her solipsism before coming out of it as if it were something to not put much attention to.  “Based on his reaction over the past few days, I’d say he’ll go through the first to get to the second.  The distraction should have taken down perhaps a sixth of his total forces.  That leaves X in your path.”

“Yeah,” he said picking up his stuff and securing it on his shoulder.  “I’ll be heading over towards point three then.”  He turned to her and extended his hand.

She took it, shaking it firmly.  “Don’t die out there.  The memory would be unpleasant.”

He just smiled, “I’ll try not to.”